The New York State Transportation Network Company Accessibility Task Force today announced that five public listening sessions will be held across the state to examine the availability of accessible ride sharing services for people with disabilities. Through these listening sessions, the task force will analyze current service options, the need and demand for accessible services, and identify opportunities and barriers to increasing these options for customers with disabilities.

The task force was established through legislation passed last year to bring ride sharing services to Upstate New York and Long Island. Members of the task force include representatives from organizations that serve people with disabilities and representatives from transportation network companies such as Uber or Lyft.

“The law authorizing transportation network companies has provided an alternative, safe transportation option to people across this state,” said Betty DeFazio, Task Force Co-Chair and Chief Development Officer at ARISE CNY. “This task force will help ensure that this vital ride sharing system is meeting the needs of every passenger, especially those who may need it most.”

“The focus of this task force is making sure that all New Yorkers, no matter what their needs may be, have adequate access to reliable transportation,” said Frank Krotschinsky, Task Force Co-Chair and Director of Suffolk County Office for People with Disabilities. “I am proud to serve as Co-Chair of this group, and I look forward to leading meaningful discussions that will help us navigate this important area of the ride sharing industry.”

Each session will begin with a brief presentation from the members of the task force. Following the presentation, interested parties will be invited to provide their feedback on ride sharing services for people with disabilities.

The law authorizing transportation network company (TNC) operation, which took effect June 29, 2017, extended ride sharing statewide. Previously, ride sharing services were only available to travelers in New York City. The law also resulted in protections for passengers and regulations for how TNCs may operate and be licensed. More information for passengers, applicants, drivers and local governments is available on the NYS DMV website at https://dmv.ny.gov/more-info/rideshare-information.